ASK & DISCUSS INDEX

10 years, 2 months ago - Paddy Robinson-Griffin

As Dan says. Each agent/distributor will probably have slightly different asks, but in essence it boils down to having a bit of paper for everyone and everything you've specifically chosen to appear in the film. Every bar of music needs a license, every bit-player needs a release, every location needs a deal.

This is the truly unglamorous side of showbusiness, but it's very real in afraid. Start making sure all your crew and cast contracts are in place, that everything is licenced properly, and then when you're asked for the deliverables (probably a list of 20 or so contracts, many of which you'll never have imagined like story rights) you'll have a head start.

10 years, 2 months ago - David Thompson

Thanks guys, much appreciated ;-)

10 years, 2 months ago - Dan Selakovich

Those are called "deliverables" here in America. What they do is allow you to buy Errors and Omissions (E and O) insurance. The last thing a distributor wants is to get sued. The legal part of deliverables are all those releases and contracts between the producer and cast and crew (for the most part). Then there are the technical aspects like an Music and EFX mix (music and EFX on separate tracks so foreign territories can re-dub the dialogue into their language), what format the film will be delivered in (35mm film, digital, what kind of digital, etc), and other things. The list can be quite substantial, and is where a lot of inexperienced filmmakers blow it.

So don't screw around asking us. You need to get yourself to an entertainment attorney. They can assist you in getting all of your Ts crossed and your Is dotted. If you didn't get the proper releases, you'll have to spend some time collecting those, but it's not impossible (unless you pissed off your lead actor, for example).

10 years, 2 months ago - SP User

I have a similar issue myself. I have found a number of pro formas on the web but I'm not entirely sure that they will be a substitute for proper legal advice. The legal advice required shouldn't be more that a few hundred pounds so if you'd consider sharing the cost that might be an option. Feel free to call me on 01423 561083 if that might be of interest to you.

Kind regards,

Nick